Diagnosis of Health Anxiety
Accurate diagnosis of health anxiety is essential to distinguish it from other medical and psychiatric conditions and to ensure that affected individuals receive appropriate treatment. The diagnosis of health anxiety is primarily clinical. Based on a detailed assessment of symptoms, behaviours, and psychological patterns rather than laboratory tests or physical exams.
Clinicians begin with a comprehensive history that includes the patient’s health concerns, past medical history, family health history. As well as previous healthcare experiences. Key diagnostic criteria include a persistent preoccupation with having or developing a serious illness,. Excessive health-related behaviours (such as checking, reassurance-seeking, or avoidance), and clinically significant distress or impairment that persists for at least six months—even in the absence of a medical explanation.
Patients may present with vague or shifting physical symptoms that don’t align with identifiable diseases. They often report visiting multiple doctors or undergoing numerous tests, all of which return negative results, yet they remain unconvinced. Reassurance from healthcare providers tends to offer only brief relief before worry resurfaces.
Diagnosis of Health Anxiety
The clinician will also evaluate whether the symptoms are better explained by another condition, such as generalised anxiety disorder, panic disorder, somatic symptom disorder, or obsessive-compulsive disorder. In health anxiety, the focus is specifically on the fear of illness and not simply distress about existing symptoms or pain.
Structured diagnostic interviews and psychological assessments, such as the Health Anxiety Inventory (HAI) or Whiteley Index, can help gauge severity and guide treatment planning. These tools assess beliefs about illness, level of reassurance-seeking, impact on daily life, and emotional responses to perceived health threats.
Importantly, the diagnosis must take into account cultural and individual differences. In some cultures, health-related anxiety may be expressed more somatically, while in others, it may be seen through repetitive health-seeking behaviours. Empathy, cultural sensitivity, and building trust with the patient are crucial during the evaluation.
Diagnosis of Health Anxiety
Early and accurate diagnosis can prevent the overuse of medical services and reduce psychological distress. It also shifts the focus from repeated medical testing to evidence-based psychological treatment. When health anxiety is identified and managed appropriately, individuals can learn to reduce excessive worry, rebuild trust in their bodies, and re-engage in meaningful life activities.[Next: Symptoms of Health Anxiety →]
